2025 West Coast Division Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Accommodation is always a major issue when planning a trip or vacation. You can choose a hotel, apartment, cabin, hostel, or homestay, and whatever you decide, I'm pretty sure it's not just about cost, but also about facilities and location. Any traveler likes to stay in a clean place with basic amenities, beautiful views, and good prices. When we planned to visit Kundasang, the choice wasn't easy. In the end, I chose Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping. You may ask, what does Hounon mean? According to the manager, Hounon means "shrouded in mist" in the local language. The name really suits the place because every morning and evening I was there, it was shrouded in thick fog, and you couldn't even see the highest mountain in Southeast Asia. There are many other special things about Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping: it is located in a tropical rainforest ecosystem, with lush tropical greenery and a night sky full of twinkling stars. Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping is located in Kampung Himbaan, Bundu Tuhan, Ranau. The farmstay is 9 km from Puncak Borneo Resort, 11 km from Kinabalu Park, 16 km from Kundasang, and 100 km from Kota Kinabalu. To get there, you have to turn off the road to Kundasang at the junction to Bundu Tuhan. This road will take you to Kampung Bundu Tuhan, passing Don Bosco Children's Home, Kampung Himbaan, and St. Valentine's Church. From there, you can ask the villagers for directions. The easiest way is to have a working GPS! If you rent a car, make sure it's in good condition, and because you'll be going downhill a lot, be sure to use a low gear to prevent the brakes from overheating.

Finally, someone has explained Sabah travel clearly, and let us enter the dream world of Kota Kinabalu and Semporna together. 1. The relationship between Sabah, Kota Kinabalu and Semporna Sabah is a federal state in Malaysia. Kota Kinabalu (Kota Kinabalu), as the capital of Sabah, is full of vitality. Tawau is a province in Sabah, while Semporna is a district in Tawau. Beautiful islands or resorts such as Kapalai, Mataking, and Sipadan are all within the jurisdiction of Semporna. 2. Kota Kinabalu 1. Transportation: Kota Kinabalu Airport [Kota Kinabalu], direct flights are available from Beijing, Guangzhou, Wuhan, Hangzhou, Shenzhen and other places in China. The daily price is relatively cheap and the flight time is about 3-4 hours. The airport is very close to the city. 2. Features: Very cost-effective, making it the first choice for traveling abroad for the first time. There are seas and mountains here, rich natural and cultural resources, and complete facilities for food, drink, entertainment and transportation. Compared with Semporna, it is more friendly to the elderly and children in terms of transportation and entertainment richness. 3. How to play: - Land: You can choose to visit the mangroves (there are many to choose from), Mount Sacred Mountain, Cultural Village, and eat in the city, such as University of Sabah, Gaya Street, Floating Mosque, etc. - Go to the sea near the islands: Go to the twin islands of Taomeng Island and Sabi Manukan to enjoy the fun at sea. - Go to sea on distant islands: explore Mermaid Island, Beach Island, Paradise Island, and experience the charm of diving. 3. Semporna 1. Transportation: Semporna’s airport is [Tawau], and currently direct flights to cities include Guangzhou, Chengdu, Nanjing, and Macau. Other cities require a transfer from Kuala Lumpur (3 hours) or Kota Kinabalu (1 hour) to Tawau Airport. Tawau Airport is about an hour's drive from Semporna town. 2. Features: If you want to experience delicious food and high-quality service, Semporna may not be the best choice. The main advantage of Semporna is the beautiful sea, while the conditions in the town are relatively average. 3. How to play: - One-day island hopping tour: You can choose the Mataking Line, Donshakaran Line, or Mabu Kapalai Line. - Half-day tour: Lover's Bay, mangroves, and sea fishing are all good choices. - Water House/Sand House Resort: If you have the budget, you can go directly to Kapalai, Mataking, and MWB; if you are looking for cost-effectiveness, you can consider Longzhu, White Pearl, and Arcadia; if you like diving, you can choose Borneo, White Pearl, and Xinjia Motor; if you want an Internet celebrity water house, you can choose crystal, royal, etc. 4. Itinerary reference 📅Kota Kinabalu, Semporna 6 days and 5 nights itinerary: D1: Domestic - Kota Kinabalu Airport - Mangrove Half-day Tour - City Hotel. D2: Kota Kinabalu chartered half-day tour - Fei Tawau - Tawau airport pick-up - hotel in town. D3: [Elizabeth Yacht] One-day trip to Dunsakaran Line. D4: One-day trip by speedboat on Madajing Line. D5: Stay in the water house - free activities and leisure vacation. D6: Hotel - transfer to Tawau Airport - return to China.

🚐Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes Kota Kinabalu South Beach 📍Course: Mangrove monkeys, sunset, fireflies 👕What to bring: Mosquito repellent, long-sleeved thin clothes There are a lot of mosquitoes when you see fireflies. I sprayed a lot of mosquito repellent. I got bitten on my feet and face that I didn't spray. If you want to do a sunset tour, take a boat for about 10 minutes and go to the sea. Stay here for about an hour. You can see various sunset colors for an hour. I was lucky enough to see a rainbow. We really got a great couple's photo. It was the best sunset in my life. Kota Kinabalu, one of the world's top 3 sunsets🌅 The sunset seen from the sea is so beautiful. I highly recommend you try the tour👍 #Sea travel #100 travel styles #100waysoftravel #100の旅行スタイル#Kota Kinabalu #Kota Kinabalu travel #Kota Kinabalu free travel #Kota Kinabalu tour

#traveldiaries #kundasang #sabahtrip #roadtrip #mountkinabalu #recommendedhotelsandresorts #yolobeliever #周走走_2728 Gathering Village in Kundasang is a charming retreat nestled in the scenic highlands of Sabah, offering cozy and authentic experience of village life. Located just a short drive from Mount Kinabalu, this homestay provides a peaceful escape surrounded by stunning views of rolling hills, fauna and flora, lush greenery and cool mountain air. The homestay offers comfortable accommodation with simple, rustic decor that reflects the local charm. Guests are treated with warm hospitality from the hosts, who make you feel like part of the family. The rooms are clean, spacious, and equipped with basic amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Waking up to panoramic views of Mount Kinabalu from your unit is truly a highlight. Gathering Village Homestay is the perfect base for exploring Kundasang'S natural beauty. Whether it's visiting the nearby Desa Dairy Farm, hiking in Kinabalu Park, or exploring the Kundasang War Memorial, there's plenty to see and do. After a day of adventure, returning to the Homestay feels like coming home. As the homestay also provides a fully equipped kitchen, we even cooked our very own hotpot, steamboat or even BBQ! For travellers seeking for a serene and authentic in Kundasang, Gathering Village Homestay offers the perfect combination of comfort, nature, and cultural immersion.

#grassland #100waysoftravel Desa Dairy Farm offers a picturesque escape into the lush green grasslands of Kundasang. Surrounded by rolling hills and open fields, the farm is a refreshing break from the urban environment, where you can enjoy the serene landscape and cool mountain air. The well-maintained pastures are home to grazing cows, and visitors can get up close with the animals while learning about dairy farming. The fresh milk and other dairy products available here are a treat, adding to the farm's charm. Desa Dairy Farm is the perfect destination for a peaceful day out, blending natural beauty with a taste of farm life.

#myhiddengems #tea #sabahtea Sabah Tea Plantation offers a dreamy escape in the misty hills of Ranau, where visitors can stroll through lush tea fields, savor the crisp air, and enjoy a tea-tasting session featuring flavors from classic black tea to pandan. Don't miss the tea-flavored ice cream—a creamy treat with earthy tea notes. An overnight stay at Sabah Tea Resort offers stargazing and the soothing sounds of the rainforest, making this plantation a must-visit tea paradise.

#myhiddengems #familytravel This Hidden Gem is hidden deep inside the forest; it’s in the Kinabalu National Park, Sabah. This is Mount Kinabalu Botanical Garden, which houses thousands of flora (and some fauna). To get here, you can take the boring route: by car. Or do it like us, by taking the Silau-Silau Trail from the Kinabalu Park Office / Headquarters. Park your vehicle at the Liwagu Restaurant, and take a light, scenic trail downhill to the Taman Botanic. This less than 30 minutes trail will reward you with a small river, a tiny waterfall, and photographic mossy forest scene. The entrance fee of the botanical garden is RM 5 (international) or RM4 (local) for adults, and RM 2 less for child tickets. It’s not a large garden, but don’t underestimate the lush greenery around you- it’s so peaceful and beautiful here! 📍Address: Botanical Garden, Kinabalu National Park, Sabah, Malaysia #100waysoftravel #trekking #kinabalupark

#hikingtime #100waysoftravel This is a moderate short hiking trail. Interesting rock formations along the way to the peak. Few great overlook points of cities views. Highly recommended. I would ask everyone who makes their way up not to leave any trash. All in all, take your own pace and you will get there since it isn't long hike to the open space or peak. I like how it wasn't crowded on a weekend evening. The hikers were quite spread out. It is one of those short hikes that you could do if you don't wanna spend too much time.

Going to Mount Sabah will pass through a ranch called Desa, locals Malaysia's New Zealand, because it's quite similar! The green grass is like a dairy farm in New Zealand and the scenery is beautiful, suitable for bringing your children to visit the milk handling process and feeding the calves and lambs. They sell the famous milk, ice cream, all kinds of snacks, very delicious. Although you have to pay a little entrance, it may be the must-see of the attraction crowded quite a lot, visitors need to be a little patient in line to see the queue to buy. #Register for June hotel sleeper

Enjoy the ultimate thrill of conquering Mount Kinabalu. No matter how tired you are, the breathtaking view will make you forget all the fatigue! Mount Kinabalu (Mount Kinabalu) is the highest mountain in Malaysia and the highest on the island of Borneo, with an elevation of about 4,095 meters above sea level. It is located in the state of Sabah in the northeastern part of Borneo. This mountain is part of Kinabalu National Park, which has been registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. What's interesting about Kinabalu? ✨ • Biodiversity It is home to a variety of plants and animals, including rare and endemic species such as insect-eating plants and the giant Rafflesia flower. • Hiking trails There are challenging and popular hiking trails. The most popular routes are Timpohon and Mesilau. • Mountaineering Climbing requires advance booking and should be guided for safety. My friends and I participated in a via ferrata and I must say it was incredibly fun and thrilling. Climbing Mount Kinabalu is an exciting and challenging adventure, but it's worth it for the beautiful views at the summit. ⛰️✨

accidentally discovered that there is a beautiful cafe here. I took photos and checked in. It is absolutely 666. The scenery is incomparably beautiful and you can see such beautiful mountains. Those who pass by have to go there specially. This place is worthy of love and consideration.😍😍😍 Drinks I ordered: Coffee Latte & Hazelnut Chocolate Coffee latte. It was a bit bland for me, maybe because it was left on ice for too long (because I used the drink as a prop)🥹 The drinks and food here are average but the view is nice😀 📍KM3 Kundasang-Ranau road Kundasang, 89308 Ranau, Sabah#deliciousfood

Desa Dairy Farm is renowned for its mesmerizing backdrop—the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Located in the state of Sabah, this farm offers visitors a front-row seat to one of Southeast Asia's most iconic mountains. The sight of Mount Kinabalu, with its rugged peaks and ever-changing moods, leaves visitors in awe. Whether shrouded in mist, basking in the morning sun, or glowing in the hues of a picturesque sunset, the mountain's view is a constant source of wonder and inspiration for all who visit. A visit to Desa Dairy Farm would be incomplete without indulging in its delectable gelato. The farm boasts a charming little gelato cafeteria where visitors can savor a variety of desserts and snacks, and yummy gelato each made with the farm's fresh milk. The gelato is creamy, rich, and made with utmost care, ensuring a delightful treat for all. Sitting at the café, relishing a delightful gelato while gazing at the mesmerizing mountain vistas feels incredibly comforting and inviting. #fallishere

We will take you to live in the fairy tale Hobbit House! If you plan to travel to Kundasang, I recommend this accommodation to you！ As soon as I arrived at the hotel, my heart melted because it was so cute and beautiful! It looked like a fairyland, as beautiful as a painting. ● Right opposite is the Holy Mountain! The scenery is great! I love the small window inside the house. You can see the Holy Mountain and all kinds of beautiful scenery right in front of you while lying on the bed! No matter how you shoot it, it’s great! You must book in advance. It is said that many people book 2 months in advance and their reservations are very full. The room I stayed in was for 5 people, with 2 double beds and a single bed. There is no air conditioning in the bed, kitchen and private toilet. It is very cold at night when eating inside. There are all the pots and pans available so you can cook hotpot at night! #deliciousfood #couplestrip #awesomepic

#wheretogo This hidden germ is located in Sabah. If you are looking for a place to disconnect yourself from the chaos and rush of everyday life, you need to come to Hounun Ridge Farmstay, Sabah. As per local language, Hounan means 'covered by mist'. The road is a bit rough as it is quite downhill and not in the best condition. Since the GPS was not working, we need to ask the local about the direction to the hotel. If you drive your own car, please ensure your car is in a good condition. After all, this is the best experience I had and worth every penny #awesomepic #freehotelstay

#wheretogo Where to catch a beautiful sunset in Kota Kinabalu? As most of the view points for sunset are considered nice especially around the Kota Kinabalu city centre, the view and vibe at this particular spot at the marina next to The Pacific Sutera is simply amazing. . Not only you can watch amazing sunset, but guests can also relax at one of the cafe next to the beach with a lots of coconut trees. The combination of yatches and nature just make the whole setting really outstanding. . Having a glass of wine or coconut water while watching the sun sets is simply mesmerising. One of the best travel moment.

#weekendgetaways Begin your journey with a trek through the lush Sosodikon Hills. As you ascend, misty vistas and lush greenery surround you, offering countless photo opportunities. However, the true highlight awaits you at the Kundasang Alpaca Club. At this enchanting farm, you'll find yourself in the company of these quirky and lovable creatures. Feed them, stroke their soft fleece, and strike a pose for selfies. The alpacas' gentle demeanor and soulful eyes will capture your heart, making it an experience you won't soon forget. #alpaca

Day 1 : Arrival at Magellan Sutera Resort -> Welcome Seafood -> Waterfront -> Filipino market Day 2 : Kundasang day trip - Desa Dairy Farm -> Alpaca Farm -> BW Bus Cafe -> Rabbit Village -> Return to KK city centre -> Borenos fried chicken Day 3 : KK city food trip - Kokol Hill -> Yee Fung laksa -> Gaya Street -> KK museum -> Fatt Kee seafood restaurant -> Yen Ai dessert -> Jia Siang Sang Nyuk noodles Day 4 : Bataras -> Good bye

#malaysia Kota Kinabalu, in Malaysia's Sabah region, offers a range of attractions: Mount Kinabalu: Hike Southeast Asia's tallest peak. This iconic mountain is a major draw for hikers and nature enthusiasts. It's a challenging climb that usually takes two days, and it offers breathtaking views and unique flora and fauna. Permits are required, and it's advisable to book in advance. Tanjung Aru Beach: Known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant atmosphere. As the day comes to a close, the sky transforms into a palette of warm colours. The sandy shores invite visitors to relax, sunbathe, or take leisurely walks. Lok Kawi Wildlife Park: Situated about 25 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, this park is home to a variety of Bornean wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. It's an educational experience for families and animal lovers. Sabah Yee Soon Local Product: You can buy a wide range of local products, including Sabah premium tea, milk tea, Tenom Coffee, dried Sabah wild Mango, mangosteen, crispy dried fish, tempeh, tiramisu chocolate and many more. These are just a few of the many attractions in Kota Kinabalu. Explore the city and its surroundings to discover more hidden gems!

#malaysia Alpacas at this miniature petting zoo in Kundasang have been imported all the way from Australia. Here, you can feed and touch the neck of Alpacas. The Alpacas are so cute with their slender necks, soft fur, and endearingly innocent, slightly droopy eyes, they bear a striking resemblance to llamas, but they're even furrier, gentler, and equally as charming. Each guest is allotted a 20-minute duration for their visit here. You are allowed to take photos, interact with the alpacas by gently touching their necks, and even feed them. However, please be cautious as you can only touch their necks; otherwise, they might spit saliva. Address: Jalan Cinta Mata Mesilou, 89308 Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia Operating Hours: 9am to 5pm Entrance Fee: RM15 per adult Ambiance/Facilities: 4/5 Rating: 4/5

#malaysia Many visitors describing this beautiful dairy farm as the Malaysian version of 'New Zealand' isn't an exaggeration. The scenic views around the area are truly delightful. It's a meticulously maintained and well-organized farm, emphasizing cleanliness and a smooth flow of visitors. The refreshing cool breeze, splendid weather, and breathtaking scenery make it a remarkable destination. You can even catch a glimpse of Mount Kinabalu's peak from here. Remember to choose the earliest slot when you purchase entrance ticket online. If not, the mountain peak will be blocked by fog. Personally, I adored the calf feeding and petting zone the most. If you're visiting Sabah, I highly recommend checking it out. Address: Jalan Cinta Mata Mesilou, 89308 Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia Ambiance/Facilities: 5/5 Ticket Price: RM 5 per adult (pre-book online) Rating: 5/5

#malaysia During our visit, we encountered more flowers than strawberries, it was not the season yet. The garden boasts stunning, colorful castle-like structures, wooden swings, and giant strawberry sculptures perfect for photo opportunities. Inside, there's a cafe offering a variety of drinks and desserts. The strawberry cheesecake was delicious. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh air. The staff was incredibly friendly. They always had a smile on their faces, making our visit even more enjoyable. Thanks for the awesome hospitality! Address: Jalan Cinta Mata Mesilou, 89308 Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia Opening Hours: 8am to 5pm Entrance Fee: RM5 per adult, RM 3 per child Ambiance/Facilities: 4/5 Rating: 4/5

#malaysia Tamparuli is a small town in Sabah. It is surrounded by lush rainforests and is close to the Crocker Range, making it a scenic location for nature enthusiasts and hikers. I dropped by here on the way to Kundasang. The main attraction is the Tamparuli Bridge or "Jambatan Tamparuli", which is a long suspension bridge made of bamboo. It's a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the town. Tamparuli is rich in Kadazan-Dusun culture, and you can experience traditional dances, music, and rituals here during cultural festivals and events. It is recommended to buy dried seafood like ikan bilis, salted fish, dried shrimp etc., fresh and reasonable priced. Ambiance/Facilities: 4/5 Rating: 4/5

#malaysia Hooga Cafe is known for its beautiful interior design, warm and welcoming ambiance. The rustic decor, wooden furniture, leather sofas and earthy tones create a cozy atmosphere that encourages relaxation and conversation. An excellent choice for a meal with family and friends. The atmosphere is delightful, and its proximity to various homestays, attractions, and the famous Desa Dairy Farm make it even more appealing. I thoroughly enjoy the café's ambiance. It exudes coziness, boasts comfortable seating, offers ample indoor space, and features ideal lighting, particularly during the evening and night. The Royal Chocolate Cake, Burnt Cheesecake, Tiramisu, Peanut Butter Toast and Cappuccino were nice. The meal is quite costly though. Service was fast and the staff were very friendly. Highly recommended. Address: 89308 Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia Ambiance/Facilities: 4.5/5 Avg. Price Per Person: RM50 Rating: 4.5/5

The first island i hv visited in Sabah (Borneo) East Malaysia. As i was there during their promotional period in around May so my boat fare cost me Rm60/pax (included 2 island). The price quite affordable as usually the boat fare will cost up to 40+ on normal visit/island. There were variety of activities we can join such as parasailing, banana boat, Ski, diving and many more (diffrent purchase) yet prices are negotiatable😜. The view was amazing. The facilities are quite well prepared for a visitor like me. Those who likes beaches, this places are highly recommended for you to experience and explore. #ManukanIsland #beaches #borneotravel

Always my favorite place to have an amazing and delicious pokey bowl of my meal in KK! I always love to create my own version of pokey bowl every time I visit here. The food is definitely fresh and prepared in a healthy manner. Besides the food, the staff is friendly while serving all customers I like how fast and the food is always prepared and served at an acceptable time, which does not need to wait in a longer time. #pokebowl #healthyfood #healthyliving

Embark on a charming journey to Desa Cattle Dairy Farm—a slice of enchantment nestled in Sabah, Malaysia. With its moniker as the 'Little New Zealand' of the region, this dairy farm transports you to the picturesque landscapes reminiscent of Kiwi land's renowned dairy farms. Join me as I recount my pre-wedding escapade at this whimsical haven, sharing the joys of a casual photoshoot, savoring fresh dairy delights, and offering insights to inspire your own visit to this overseas-like paradise. Casual Pre-Wedding Shoor: Immerse yourself in pre-wedding bliss amidst the enchanting backdrop of Desa Cattle Dairy Farm. Capture candid moments that encapsulate your love story. Kiwi-Inspired Landscapes: Revel in the scenic beauty that mirrors the iconic dairy farms of New Zealand. The cooling air and foggy ambiance enhance the illusion of being abroad. Fresh Dairy Indulgence: Savor the farm's delightful offerings by purchasing fresh cheese and yogurt—savoring their creamy goodness is a delightful post-photoshoot treat. Overseas Vibes: Allow the highlands landscapes and cool air to whisk you away on a mental escape, making you feel as if you've journeyed to faraway lands. Photographic Playground: Every corner of Desa Cattle Dairy Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for both casual and professional photoshoots—ensure your memories are beautifully captured. Foggy Fantasy: Capture the dreamy ambiance that foggy surroundings create, transforming the farm into an ethereal and magical realm. Pack for Comfort: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for light exploration. A light jacket might come in handy in the cool climate. #desafarm #kotakinabalu

Mesilou Strawberry Farm is located at Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia. It is one of the tourist spot in Kundasang. The cute and colourful architecture attracts me to go visit here. Only a few minutes drive from Pekan Kundasang. If you are interested to see some strawberries, here is the best place to go. There are also a cafe here where they sell various delicious food for us to much #foodie #mytripvlog

My experience went here (Kota Kinabalu) REALLY AMAZING. I have want to be there for longest time and finally i got to be there with my big family! Love the view, the hotel, the weather omg i really want to go there someday again..maybe next year? Please go to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah if you want a romantic amazingly beautiful city. Surprisingly the foods is also good. Thanks for the beautiful memories that i will not forget! #kotakinabalu #mytripvlog